Brussels

LIVELY NIGHTS… AND PEACEFUL MORNINGS

Brussels remains a dedicated party town – with a dizzying array of music venues, cosy bars and late-night clubs. Music tends towards two polar extremes – fiddly jazz and stripped back techno, so take your pick. It’s a scene fuelled by the country’s excellent beers – and you’ll have fun finding your favourites: but be careful out there, it’s a strong and heady brew, hovering around 8-9% ABV – not least the ales made in the country’s monasteries (known as Trappist ale). Now that’s what we call holy water.

Madame Moustache

Swing, rock and roll, disco, electro: you name it! Madame Moustache, right next to St. Catherine, offers you cool vibes from Tuesday to Saturday, with a certain vintage style, Madame Moustache gives you concerts, events and great nightlife.

Recyclart

A refreshingly ramshackle arts centre takes over an abandoned train station, Recyclart is an arts centre that crackles with energy, especially at night – when young and up and coming bands and DJ’s take over the space.

Morning After

For lazy brunches, head to L’Eau Chaude(25 re des Renards), or breakfast with a side order of accordion music at A La Clef d’Or(1 place du Jeu de Balle) – a retro caff that’s a hit with locals. The Sunday morning market at at Place du Jeu de Balle is great for a browse. Head to tiny La Brocante, a bar serving beers from 6am if it’s hair of the dog you’re after. Then take a stroll in pretty Marie-Louise square (av Livingstonelaan), with its duck-crowded lake and sinewy paths – urban living at its most bucolic.